Omudhome Ogbru, PharmD

Dr. Ogbru received his Doctorate in Pharmacy from the University of the Pacific School of Pharmacy in 1995. He completed a Pharmacy Practice Residency at the University of Arizona/University Medical Center in 1996. He was a Professor of Pharmacy Practice and a Regional Clerkship Coordinator for the University of the Pacific School of Pharmacy from 1996-99.

Jay W. Marks, MD

Jay W. Marks, MD, is a board-certified internist and gastroenterologist. He graduated from Yale University School of Medicine and trained in internal medicine and gastroenterology at UCLA/Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles.

DRUG CLASS AND MECHANISM: These eye drops contain a combination of a steroid and one or more types of antibiotic for treatment of infection and inflammation of the eye. The steroid reduces inflammation while the antibiotic treats or prevents infection which may be the cause of the infection. Examples of steroids that are used in these eye drops are hydrocortisone, loteprednol,
prednisolone, and dexamethasone. Examples of antibiotics used in these formulations include tobramycin, neomycin, bacitracin, polymixin B, and gentamycin. These antibiotics have different mechanisms of action and
two or three may be combined in one formulation.

PRESCRIPTION: Yes

GENERIC AVAILABLE: Yes for some

PREPARATIONS: Steroid and antibiotic combination eye drops are available as ointments or suspensions.

STORAGE: They are usually stored at room temperature.

PRESCRIBED FOR: Steroid and antibiotic eye drops generally are used for preventing or treating eye infections and associated inflammation.

DOSING: Doses range between 1 to 3 drops of the suspension instilled into the eye every 1 to 6 hours. The dose for an ointment is 1/2 inch 3 to 4 times daily. (Patients should see the instructions for each agent for more detailed information about how to use these agents.)